Countermeasures for Master Suppression Techniques

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Confirms Techniques and counter-strategies
- Way to address the power structures and the changing social climate.

Ditte Jonasson - PhD in Education,
Diana Amnéus - PhD in International Law,
Ulrika Flock - PhD in biochemistry,
Pernilla Rosell Steuer - Doctor of Philosophy in German,
Gunnel Tested - PhD in Comparative Literature
- Empowerment Network at the University of Stockholm (ensu)

To contact the writers and ensu: [email protected] or [email protected]


Introduction

Suppression techniques is a phenomenon and a term coined by Berit Ås to describe a subtle förtryckarfenomen between men and women (Ridge, 1992; 1978). Suppression Techniques in accordance with AS methods to maintain or acquire negative power over other people or ways to assert themselves itself by oppressing other individuals. Berit Ås defined five such techniques (ridge, 1978), which she called invisibility, ridicule, concealment of information, double punishment and the imposition of guilt and shame. Later ridge (Freya, broadcast in P1, 2003) also identified objectification, threats and violence as a way for men to overcome negative power - rule - over women, but these will not be touched in this article.

Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Stockholm featured ridge 'research over a series of seminars for female graduate students in spring 2003. We recognized and sometimes sighed and was horrified and realized that we had been wronged in exactly the way that Berit Ås talked about. And we were not alone. In discussions with colleagues and friends, we understood that this had happened too many. Both women and men were familiar with the humiliation of having been exposed to a domination technique, but also in the terrifying realization that many of we also carried out these techniques themselves. Ruler techniques, we realized, not necessarily gendered.

Studies have shown (Mählk, 2003) that comparatively many women leave the academy after disputation with the explanation that "it was not really my arena." Mählk also show that even the most pronounced gender-conscious institutions are hidden and informal structures effectively closes the doors for a future academic career for women. In SvD 040308 explains women MPs based ridge theories also about a hidden structure that presses and limits their expression and ways of being. Many men testify today about a fear of being friendly to children other than their own because they are afraid of being perceived as pedophiles which indicates a double punishment of the men, they both should and should not show emotions. In industry aware of women in company boardrooms where the expressions of a lack of qualified women show at reducing and invisible technologies. In family sphere perceived men as 'good' if they share the parental leave or other parts family responsibilities. This is a limitation and oppression of their obvious role as fathers and normal people. These few examples demonstrate all too clearly that techniques to limit and oppress people, unfortunately, are all too common.

After observing how common suppression techniques are, we decided to develop practical methods to better meet them. What can you do to help to a real, long-term change of social climate? And how can you do instead of oppress? It was the questions we wanted to create answers. In this article we present the results of our work. 1


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1. counter-strategies are ways to counter suppression techniques when we experience them.
2. Confirms techniques are ways to change the social climate.

The point of these techniques is to provide tools to take possession of people who feel they oppressed or offended to do something about the situation themselves, to take control of their own lives and situation - the power to actually be able to influence. What we present here is not a exhaustive material in the sense that these are the only way or the right. Our results are rather examples of ways to meet and relate to irregularities in our social life. It is important to create new patterns of interaction and approach. And Motstrategierna confirms techniques are therefore specific examples of how we can move forward and possibly achieve long-term change in the professional as well as private social environment. To spread the ideas we formed Empowerment Network at the University of Stockholm (ensu) whose main purpose is to change the power structure and promote jämställdighet in Stockholm University. 2


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1 suppression technique: INVISIBILIZING

Suppression technique is to convey that you are not - that you do and say is not important or valuable. The technology can take various forms and can be made ​​directly with words but also through body language and gestures. It may be that in different contexts not introduce yourself by name or even mention your name, but also to talk about your work and efforts in dismissive fashion. More indirect techniques involves diverting attention from you when you speak by creating noise like scraping with chair, shuffle papers, cough and clear his throat. But it can also mean a lack of gestures and response, as no one takes notes as you say or not to ask questions that show that one is interested in what you're talking about. There may be different reasons for becoming exposed for such treatment. It could be due to habit, malice, or even ignorance. The aim in all cases is to get the person to feel insignificant and insecure.


The defensive strategy: TAG LOCATION

This technique can be disposed of in various ways. There may be different reasons for technique was employed, why it can sometimes be good to be cautious and not go directly to openly confrontational. One should avoid getting into a victim and do not in sense of feeling diminished. Perhaps the most important thing to consider in such a situation is not to show his anger or frustration but in a calm and self-confidence to assert their right to be heard or seen. What you should do is to act immediately. Waiting man with reaction the damage may already be done. You need to show that you do not accept the behavior. This can be done in different ways depending on how the suppression technique was applied.

Is it about a discussion where you yourself are talking but the others do not listen, you can interrupt immediately when you notice that you are not paying attention. By pointing out that you can happily see that they listen and say to them that it's important to me that they listen, do it in practice necessary for them to listen, not to seem rude, if despite your express request continues. Take a seat in a natural way. Require respect!

In many cases it may be important to directly give verbal feedback on what they perceive as invisibility. Simply pay attention to the person / s on the lewd behavior by say straight out that "That was not sjyst," or "Did I hear right? Did you say ... "," Are you really think ...? ". The response should be formulated as a question rather than a accusation. Another strategy is to use humor to disarm anyone using suppression technique, for example, "Oops, you forgot to introduce myself by name, but true can happen to the best. "

Noticing, however, that such behavior recurs frequently in a particular person might it's just as well that you avoid that if it is possible.


Validation Technique: VISIBILIZING

To contribute to a climate where suppression technique is not used - a culture of mutual respect prevails, it is important that, in turn, take the people in their environment seriously and show their commitment to them. By listening to others, give feedback and constructive criticism visualize and confirm others. This will inspire respect and means you indirectly visualize yourself. 3


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2 Ruler Technique: RIDICULING

The second of Berit Ås techniques is ridicule. The technique presents a totally unequal situation, where as ridiculing someone else power over the situation. The mocking diminishes and belittles his victim, and also destroys the victim, who can thus can laugh at. And who does not want to have fun? But this is not a good laugh, it's a killing laughter for those exposed.

Ridiculing of women and traditionally female and characteristics are common in our society, so common that imprints are even language. Women "chatter" and "mouth" called a bitch, whore, last year's league girls, hysterical females, hussy, slut, etc. In funny stories reproduced ridicule by women at Hens (wallflowers!), magpies, cows, sows and so on. The derisive words for women appears to be far more than equivalent for men. Unfortunately, women have a tendency to belittle themselves, for example by saying: "How stupid I was! How could I be so stupid? " A closely related phenomenon is infantilization. It means that you are attracted to and expected to be a child, comfortable enough for the other person takes on the role of adult or parent knows best. If you get a pat on the back or to hear "Little old lady, so there you Surely not do? How do you manage it? "Then to infantilization. It is very risk here is that you can get a first feeling of cosiness, that the other person cares about one in a special way. In fact, it has been effectively stopped, belittled.


Counter strategy: Questioning

Do not fall into the outsourced small frame, but keep your cool and act based on a definition of yourself as big and strong and one that takes place. Do not get stuck in the sense of humiliation and shame counterpart awards. Arguing on the basis of your expertise, do not go into the trap of reduction (infantilization). Spread out! Do not let the joke pass without comment. Braking up the conversation and require ridicule analyzed. Stay cool and logical and makes

Of course you do not accept this treatment.

Never laugh with!

Some phrases that can challenge the behavior, and make yourself visible are:

- What do you mean by that?

I want you to explain and clarify what it is you mean.

Repeat verbatim the words used and ask for further explanation.

- Wait, what was that you said?
- Do I understand you correctly?
- What I hear you saying is ... .. ......, do you mean really? Explain yourself!


Validation Technique: RESPECT

The opposite of ridicule and infantilization is to respect and to respond seriously and support person, so that they feel important and adult. One can be sure to give women mental space by asking questions about their perceptions and views. If one is at a meeting, it is good to be several who support each other. An advantage is also to be well-read.

Then a ridicule to take root so easily. 4


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3 Ruler Technique: Withholding information

Having the information and keeping it inside is a power which can mean that a person or a group is prevented from acting as they would have done if they had known better. Not to get access to news, meeting documents, records, or invitations could lead to the for example, becomes too late to act or to act improperly. An example; on soccer game after work, it may be much "made up" the guys in between. The then takes place at a later meeting - when women are present - is that the case quickly clubbing through.

Counter strategy: cards on the table

It is possible to recognize "the withholding of information" and require the cards on the table. Question that any decision (that requires your consent) over your head. Talking "all other" if something as if it were self-evident? Point out that you have not received all the information. For a number times become a victim of "withholding information", point this out to the person charge (such as a boss), that there is a structural problem that makes you do not get it information you are entitled to. No decision can be made ​​in a working group where some are absent or have not received sufficient information. As an employee may be required on the cards table and remind the others in the group to eg "We are four in the group to discuss and make decisions, and I am one of those "pacta sunt servanda - agreements must be kept. It is also making use of other people's energy, eg by saying, "It's great that you have discussed this! Now can you tell me also, so that we can come to a decision. " Briefly:

- You are not stupid, someone makes you stupid by withholding information.
- Require that important issues are postponed if more time is needed for loading.
- Have the requirements to become thoroughly informed when decisions are made.
- Use your own network to obtain information.

The starting point should always be, if you are not fully convinced to the contrary, that withholding of information is a result of,

- Poor information structure
- That a person is unaware of his actions and what the consequences


Validation Technique: INFORM

Not to self-apply the "withholding information" one should be careful to inform and include all stakeholders in decision making processes. This can apply to both the private and the the professional sphere. If decisions are made ​​over our heads, we can all feel overlooked and perhaps even offended. It is important to be aware of Quieter individuals who can not, because of age or shyness, speak for themselves. Do you have pure enthusiasm discussed eg a project, outside working hours, and arrived at meaningful conclusions? Be prepared to present your thoughts and to your Conclusions. Transparency is a guiding principle. Furthermore, you must be prepared for any decisions have to be postponed to a later date. A manager should clarify when things should discussed, and also make clear that the subject should not be discussed outside of working hours. Remember that everyone regardless of gender applies suppression techniques, and that in 90% of cases occur unconsciously. 5


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4 Ruler Technique: DOUBLE PUNISHMENT

If you are careful, you get told that you're picky, you're certain you called bitchy and you're good listeners dismissed you as weak. Focus on the job you are accused, you might to begrudge children or partner and is the other way around, maybe you lack ambition. Addition becomes the partner, children, boss, gym buddy disappointed and angry when you do not have time or prioritize other than them. Double punishment is a domination technique that creates an experience of that whatever you do, you will do wrong.

Counter strategy: break the pattern

By thinking about and understand themselves and their own priorities may be easier respond to a double punishment. The point is, namely, to break the pattern of negative projections by 1) requiring answers to how, for example, a fixed deadline is and what happens if the broken, and 2) tell what priority right now, discuss the implications of it and if it is okay for the boss / family / friend. The next step is for itself and define the heaviest. When exposed to the feeling that whatever I do I do wrong, you can have a mantra roll in his head: "I know why I do what I do, I know what is important to me in life." The person can, for example, say: "I'm sorry you feel that way, but I prioritize my health / my family / myself / my work now and I hope and believe that I can be a part of this situation / relationship / organization. I want to be a part of this group / department, but it's also important for me to have other priorities. I hope that you / you can accept it. This has nothing to do with you / you to do. I can understand if you / you feel neglected / sad / left alone / unsecured but it has nothing to do with you / you that I respect, appreciate, love you. I do this to myself. "

Validation Technique: double reward

To get from the world around expectations and requirements based on the valuation that whatever I do as I do right is what confirms the technology double reward describes. It's easier to take it This perspective if you think that all people always do the best they can based on their conditions. If you think it will be easier to respond. Despite the fact that a person always do their best based on their circumstances, it means it's not that she or he can not do wrong, quite the opposite. Being late to meetings or daycare center is not right, but with the attitude that the person has done his best to get there in time, I can explain the importance of to follow the times and discuss how it will look in the future, instead of being upset or disappointed. I have to rush from one meeting to another may also explain prior to it will be so, and maybe ask if it is all right if I go into a little break previously not to disturb the meeting. Then I can also ask for a short resume next meeting on what I missed. Thus, you can influence the rules of the project or family situation should look like. Then follows a discussion where employee / manager / family members oppose this way, you have to have a discussion where one's own and ambient conditions and priorities are highlighted and becomes clear. Through this, we can learn to understand that when a person says no to a cup of coffee, badminton match or the project say she / he no to the activity not to the relationship with the person. This is Centrally when we maintain the perspective that we are doing the best we can. Double reward: Whatever we do, we do right. 6


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5 suppression technique: HEAPING guilt and shame

The fifth suppression technique means that someone else will make you feel shame and guilt for a deed, a property, an event or a situation, even though it is not you or your personal which is the trigger for the event or situation. This technique is related The fourth technique, the double, and is also to some extent more diffuse and elusive than the first three categories. To impose any guilt and shame can be described as the combined result of having been exposed to the previous four techniques: People who do not receive information, but is made ​​invisible, ridiculed and finally have no more than to internalize this message and feel guilty and shame: "I'm a failure, everything is my fault." Concrete examples can be found in many everyday situations, it may be women who feel guilty that they do not to complete their tasks, rather than to critically examine their work situation, or if parents who takes the blame for everything that affects their child. In more extreme cases, the entire community - implicitly or explicitly - charging a woman is "guilty" because she has been raped or beaten by referring to the victim wearing the "wrong" clothes or were on the "wrong" place. Common to all cases of this oppressive technique is that shame and guilt imposed outside, but experienced from within, making it particularly difficult to identify which rules technology.

The defensive strategy: INTELLECTUALIZATION

A clear and effective counter-strategy to the imposition of guilt and shame is not easy to define. An important first step is to sensitize yourself to your guilt and shame have applied by someone else. Putting words to your feelings are already there helping. Attempts in as far as possible to step out of yourself and intellectualize situations where you felt guilt and shame later: How was the situation in concrete terms? Why did you feel guilty? Then move on to the environment: How do you think the situation experienced by the other? Was it a situation that could be perceived as ridden with anxiety or problematic for anyone other than yourself, and it may be that someone - consciously or unconsciously - trying to "dump" their problems on you? Was there no hidden message in it which was communicated to you, and how would you be able to put words to this? Since we all rely on group solidarity, it may be important for all to "save" both situations such as relationships, even if it comes at the expense of an unconscious loss of the own self-esteem? A third step is to raise your gaze further and look even further back, to see a specific situation in the light of past cultural traditions and norms. Through this step, you see patterns in the way you and other people's behavior, which can provide insight into how we all learn both to apply and to take on shame and guilt.

Validation Technique: CONFIRM YOURSELF AND OTHERS

The opposite of making someone feel guilt or shame is any type of behavior that gives confirmation backing and support. Through a broader understanding of cultural patterns, you can lift away the guilt from yourself if you påbördats responsibility that goes beyond the reasonable. Since the imposition of guilt and shame is at a general level and strikes "from within", must also confirms the technology starting from the inside, as you can see with your own eyes, both in yourself and second and define new, positive standards for the life that you have chosen. Confirmation of your itself also means confirmation by others. In situations where e.g. norms for women working clashes with traditional patriarchal patterns, it becomes especially important with confirmation from sisters, in order to reach new identities that are not based on imposed shame and guilt but includes a positive and life-affirming basic attitude. 7


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Top The first step in any change is awareness. An awareness and attention that something has happened to give us something to go on, experiential knowing in and relate to - this is what ridge descriptions and concepts. The second step is to make visible intellectualize and call attention to and this is what defined counter-strategies. The third step is to lead by example and in addition, we now have confirmation techniques.

In summary, techniques like this:
Ruler Technique
Counter strategy
Validation Technique
Making invisible
Take a seat
Visibility
Ridicule
Questioning
Respect
DETENTION
The cards on the table
Inform
Double Punishment
Breaking the pattern
Double reward
Guilt and shame
INTELLECTUALIZE
Confirm reasonable standards

There is a word in the English language that have links to our newly established network ensu and it is ensue, which is to keep fighting, keep moving forward, do not give up - and that is exactly what we must do to achieve a sustained, long-term change in the negative, oppressive social patterns. "That's enough now!" Is the motto. It goes no further than here. We take on our responsibility to stop this, to change ourselves in order to be able to change surroundings and definitely change the next generation of men and women. This requires that we have to work more, instead of whining and accept in silence. But this is the manners we want to work in, you will thrive in their lives and in their workplace. Anything less is not good enough. Raising awareness, visibility, intellectualize and lead by example, it is our responsibility. 8


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References:

Mählck, Paula (2003). Mapping Gender in Academic Workplaces. Ways of Reproducing Gender inequality within the discourse of equality. Dissertation. Umeå: Umeå University.

Ås, Berit (1978). Hersketeknikker. Kjerringråd. no. 3, pp. 17-21.

Ekselius, Elin & Olsson, Promise (2004-03-08). Women become invisible. Swedish Dagbladet.


Unprinted references:

Freya, radio channel P1, 2003-09-20

Ås, Berit (1992) The master suppression techniques [Video recording]: a theory of the language of power. Växjö: Växjö Municipality equality committee.